Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the tape measure still extend and retract normally when the tether is fitted?
A: Yes. The tether is designed specifically to retain tape measure functionality throughout. The tape blade exits through the front opening of the tether body and extends normally. The lock button and tape window remain accessible. The original belt clip at the rear of the tape measure is also accessible through the tether's open-back design. The tether can be left on the tape measure permanently without affecting any measurement operation.
Q: What safety standards does this tether meet?
A: The tether is certified to ANSI/ISEA 121-2023, the primary international standard for dropped object prevention tethering equipment, and also meets NS 9611:2022+AC, the Norwegian standard for tool lanyards and tethering systems. It carries CE and UKCA markings. Load testing is dynamic at a 2:1 safety factor, independently verified by a third-party laboratory.
Q: What is this tether NOT suitable for?
A: The tether is not suitable for tape measures smaller than 5m, which may not seat securely within the velcro adjustment range, or for tape measures larger than 8m or exceeding 1kg. It must not be used at height without a rated lanyard connecting the D-ring to a rated anchor point. It is not a fall arrest device.
Q: What tape measure sizes will this fit?
A: The velcro side adjustment system accommodates tape measures from 5m to 8m. This covers the majority of standard construction tape measures in regular site use. Tapes smaller than 5m may move within the tether body despite maximum tightening. Tapes larger than 8m or measuring tapes with unusual body shapes may not close correctly within the flap system.
Q: Can I still use the tape measure's belt clip with the tether fitted?
A: Yes. The tether is designed with an open rear that leaves the tape measure's original belt clip accessible. The tether also has its own integrated metal belt clip on the front of the tether body, so the operative has two belt carry options: the tether clip on the front, and the tape measure's own clip at the rear. Both can be accessed without removing the tether.
Q: How is this different from the NLG Tape Measure Holster (NLG101749)?
A: The Holster is a belt storage solution with a rotating retention bar that stores the tape measure in a fixed position on the belt. The tether point is on the Holster's D-ring, not on the tape measure itself. The Tether wraps around the tape measure body and puts the rated D-ring directly on the tool. When the tape measure is removed from the Holster for use, a tether via the Holster D-ring becomes a lanyard attached to the Holster, which is on the belt, rather than to the tape measure in the hand. The Tether keeps the lanyard connected to the tool regardless of whether it is in the Holster or not.
Q: Do I need both the Tether and the Holster?
A: The two products serve different functions and together provide the most complete solution. The Holster stores the tape measure securely on the belt between measurements with the rotating retention bar. The Tether ensures the lanyard is always connected to the tape measure body, including during active use away from the Holster. Many sites specify both: the Holster for storage security, and the Tether so the tape remains tethered in the operative's hand. Either product can be used independently.
Q: What should I do if the tether is dropped at height?
A: Quarantine the tether immediately. Inspect the tether body for structural damage, the velcro closures for tearing or separation, the D-ring for deformation, and the integrated belt clip for distortion. Scan the NLG ID tag to log the drop event and access the inspection checklist. Do not return the tether to service until a competent person has completed and recorded the inspection.
